Actress Noluthando Meje. Picture: SUNDAY TIMES
Actress Noluthando Meje. Picture: SUNDAY TIMES

ACTRESS Noluthando Meje has appeared in a host of local and international shows. Tshepo Mashego talks to her about money.

Are you a saver or a spender?

A bit of both. I spend on things that make me pretty. I am a woman, so I obviously splurge here and there.

What is your biggest extravagance?

My car, I think.

What is the best thing you have spent money on?

My laptop [a Mac]. I bought it for my birthday. It was probably the most expensive gift I have ever bought myself.

Do you invest in shares or other assets?

Yes, I have MTN shares and I am planning on buying more in other companies. I definitely think it is a good thing to invest because I want to be able to leave something for my kids one day.

How do you prefer to pay for things — cash or card?

Cash.

Do you tip easily or do your waiters and waitresses have to work hard?

I once worked as a waitress and I know the importance of good service and that a tip goes a long way, so I try to tip as often as possible for good service.

Have you ever been really short of cash?

Yes, when I started out in my career.

What was the most lucrative job you have ever done? And what did you do with the cash?

I would say the show What's Your Story? I made enough money and bought my mom furniture.

Do you give money to beggars?

Sometimes, but I prefer to give them food.

What is the most important lesson you have learnt about money?

That it does not grow on trees, as my dad always says.

Do you have a financial adviser or do you look after your own finances?

I look after my own finances.

What did your childhood teach you about money?

Saving. I had that savings piggy thing. I used to put all my change in there and I would buy stuff that I really liked, like Spice Girls CDs.

What is the best money advice you have ever received?

Save!

If you won R10m, what would you spend it on?

I would buy a house and invest in businesses and property.

Where in the world would you most like to own a house or apartment?

Right here in Mzansi. I would love to be somewhere coastal — Durban or Cape Town.

What place in the world could you never be paid enough to live in?

Zimbabwe. I have not been there, but I do not believe in what is going on in that country. I am a very opinionated person and I would hate to live in a country where it is hard to express one's opinion.

• This article was first published in Sunday Times: Business Times